Classical composer Arthur Benjamin was born on this day in 1893. Benjamin wrote “Concerto for Harmonica and Orchestra” for Larry Adler in 1953.
Blues guitar and harmonica player Louis Myers was one of the cornerstones of the Chicago Blues scene in the 1950’s, working with his brother Dave on guitar and Fred Below on the drums, the formed a band called the Aces, which originally featured Junior Wells on harmonica. The Aces would go on to play back-up for dozens of Chicago’s Blues greats. Myers was born on this day in 1929.
Rock singer and multi-instrumentalist Mark Olson was born on this day in 1961. Olson plays the harmonica and was featured in the band, The Jayhawks from 1985 to 1995 in addition to working with Rare Earth, Counting Crows and John Hiatt.
Jug band harmonica player Will Shade put together the Memphis Jug Band which featured Furry Lewis, Charlie Burse and even a young Walter Horton. Shade also worked with Memphis Minnie, Gus cannon and many other Blues greats. Shade died on this day in 1966.
That’s it for today. Have fun and practice!
Pete Krampert
I am the author of "The Encyclopedia of the Harmonica", which is still available on the internet in limited edition.
We will be happy to hear your thoughts